Is Delusion The Key To Success?

Formula One drivers operate at the pinnacle of performance. 

If you’re also a fan of Netflix’s 'Drive to Survive'  following the behind-the-scenes of the sport, you may have noticed a strategy enlisted by drivers at this level.  

“They MUST believe they are THE Best. Doubting themselves equals DEATH!” you hear coaches explain.   Dramatic? Sure. True? Yes.  

I observe the mindsets of elite performers because it magnifies what’s required for everyday peak performance.  

A ‘delusional’ level of belief is consistently observed.   

In our "ordinary" worlds, the reason most don't elicit this effective strategy is not what many assume.   You see, something you'll notice about those who play at the pinnacles of success is their falls from grace are as spectacular as their rises to glory.   

Whether it’s Will Smith's Oscar saga or a crash in Formula One — A split decision can see you tumbling from on top of the world to the depths of despair.   

Humility is not the real reason you avoid self-delusion, but instead, this 👆🏼 fact that you prefer humble self-belief.  

It’s the EMOTIONAL experience you perceive (fear, disappointment, doubt) that you don’t trust yourself to handle. 

Therefore, sacrificing the opportunity of achieving your pinnacle. If you’ve convinced yourself you’re average then lose - no biggie.  But you think you’re #1, and come last, that’s gonna sting.  When you believe you can be the best, you risk far greater disappointment.   

This inability to stay grounded & certain through inevitable failure is why most people settle for less than their potential.    

When most do fail they recluse, give up or change direction. Others, walk out of the flames still CONVINCED they were robbed of their victory.   

I’m not suggesting full-blown delusion to the point of non-existent self-awareness is the path - this is an enormous hindrance to a growth mindset.  

Plus, arrogance which means no one wants to help you win is a problem.  

But, there IS a certain delusional quality that uber-successful people have.  

You NEED TO BELIEVE that something different can happen.  

It’s one thing you trust you *can be* the best when you are. It’s another to continue to believe it when you’re not.   

This is the difference between excellent & extraordinary performance.   

Believing in potential you don't yet have evidence of is how ultimate greatness is cultivated.   

Trusting in possible realities you haven't yet seen manifest is what initiates exquisite realities.  

The insight I want to leave you with is this:

You do not refuse functional self-delusional because it’s inauthentic or arrogant…

You 1/ prefer to be "right" about your own limitations & 2/ struggle with emotional regulation.  

Truth is, until you're prepared to proclaim that you could be the best when you’ve come dead last, you’re yet not performing to your potential.